France Advances to Nations League Semis After Thrilling Win Over Croatia
France came from behind to defeat Croatia 4-2 in a penalty shootout, overturning a 2-0 first-leg deficit to reach the Nations League semi-finals.
France staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Croatia in a penalty shootout, overturning a 2-0 deficit from the first leg to advance to the Nations League semi-finals. The 2021 champions recovered from a lackluster performance in Split to triumph in Paris.
Didier Deschamps' team faced a daunting task after their disappointing first-leg loss. However, they rose to the challenge, delivering a strong performance against a Croatia side that had struggled in their previous three Nations League games, losing two of those matches.
France took time to gain momentum, with their first scoring chance emerging in the 17th minute. Michael Olise's corner kick found Aurelien Tchouameni at the near post, but the Real Madrid midfielder's glancing header narrowly missed the far post.
Following this opportunity, Croatia adopted a resolute defensive stance, limiting France's scoring chances for the remainder of the half. The only notable exception occurred in the 39th minute, when Olise played Bradley Barcola through on goal. However, Barcola was thwarted by the imposing presence of Dominik Livakovic, ensuring the half ended with limited goalmouth action and Croatia failing to register a single shot on target.
France's first-half struggles were swiftly forgotten as they scored seven minutes into the second half. Michael Olise's expertly curled free-kick sailed over the Croatian wall, leaving Dominik Livakovic helpless. With Croatia's aggregate lead now reduced to one, Zlatko Dalic's team retreated, defending deeper and inviting French pressure.
The French onslaught eventually paid off in the 80th minute, as Kylian Mbappe picked out Olise on the right. Olise then cut the ball back for Ousmane Dembélé to score, leveling the tie. With neither team able to score again before the 90 minutes were up, extra time was required. France dominated but struggled to create clear chances, while Croatia remained passive, unable to test Mike Maignan.
The stalemate continued into extra time, with France unable to break down Croatia's defense. Mbappe's brilliant volley was saved by Livakovic at the near post, sending the match to penalties. Croatia faltered first, as Maignan saved Martin Baturina's penalty. When Franjo Ivanovic also missed, France seemed poised to advance. However, Jules Kounde and Theo Hernandez both missed the target, sending the shootout into sudden death.
Maignan made another crucial save, denying Josip Stanisic, and Dayot Upamecano capitalized by converting his penalty to send France into the semi-finals.
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